They were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, among other charges. Each faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years.

They were taken to Tampa for prosecution.

The U.S. Coast Guard says it offloaded 2,500 pounds of cocaine valued at $37 million on Jan. 22 south of the Dominican Republic. The men were seen tossing packages of drugs overboard during a pursuit launched from a British military ship.